Venezuela Military Backs VP Delcy Rodriguez After Maduro’s Capture

Venezuela’s military has declared support for Vice President Delcy Rodriguez as the acting leader of the country following the capture of President Nicolas Maduro by U.S. forces in Caracas on March 2, 2024. Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez endorsed a ruling from the Supreme Court that appointed Rodriguez as interim president for a 90-day period. This development marks a significant shift in the political landscape of Venezuela, which has been grappling with economic turmoil and political unrest for several years.

Rodriguez, who has served as vice president since 2018, has been a key figure in Maduro’s administration, overseeing the oil-dependent economy and the country’s intelligence services. The Supreme Court’s ruling on Saturday was a direct response to the military’s actions, affirming Rodriguez’s position in the presidential line of succession.

During a televised address, Rodriguez condemned Maduro’s capture, describing the U.S. military operation as “barbaric” and an “illegal and illegitimate kidnapping.” She characterized the U.S. actions as an affront to Venezuela’s sovereignty and demanded the “immediate release” of Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. Despite her strong rhetoric, Rodriguez also expressed a willingness to engage in dialogue with the U.S., stating, “we are willing to have respectful relations,” while calling for a clear and constitutional approach to governance.

U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed that U.S. officials have been in contact with Rodriguez, describing her as “essentially willing to do what we think is necessary to make Venezuela great again.” Rodriguez has previously faced U.S. sanctions for her role in undermining the democratic process in Venezuela.

In a stark warning, Trump indicated that Rodriguez could face significant consequences if she does not adhere to U.S. expectations, stating, “if she doesn’t do what’s right, she is going to pay a very big price, probably bigger than Maduro.” U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the complexity of the situation, noting that discussions with Rodriguez and her administration require “mature statesmanship.” He reiterated that U.S. goals remain unchanged, but the dynamics have shifted with Maduro’s removal.

Following Maduro’s capture, reports indicated that some of his bodyguards were killed during the U.S. raid, although Padrino Lopez did not provide specific casualty numbers. Venezuelan authorities have yet to release official figures concerning injuries or fatalities from the operation. Trump mentioned that while some U.S. forces sustained injuries, there were no fatalities among American personnel.

Padrino Lopez also called for Venezuelans to return to normalcy in their daily activities, urging citizens to resume economic, work, and educational pursuits. He stated, “the homeland must follow its constitutional course,” underscoring the military’s commitment to maintaining stability in the wake of this significant political upheaval.

As the situation continues to unfold, Maduro and Flores arrived in New York on March 3, where they will face federal charges related to drug trafficking and connections to gangs designated as terrorist organizations, allegations that Maduro has denied. A video circulated on social media showed Maduro smiling while being escorted by U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration agents.

The aftermath of Maduro’s capture raises questions about the future of Venezuela’s governance and the potential for renewed diplomatic relations with the United States. As Rodriguez steps into her role as acting president, the international community watches closely to see how her administration will navigate the challenges ahead.